Which type of crime typically involves harsher sentencing?

The type of crime that typically involves harsher sentencing is felonies. This is due to the serious nature of felonies, which often include crimes such as murder, rape, and robbery, among others. The legal system recognizes these offenses as significantly more harmful to society and individuals compared to misdemeanors, infractions, or violations.

Felonies generally carry longer jail or prison sentences, fines, and more extensive repercussions, including the loss of certain civil rights (like voting) in some jurisdictions. This reflects the idea that felonies are seen as more severe offenses with greater impact on victims and communities, warranting a stronger punitive response.

In contrast, misdemeanors are generally less serious and are thus subject to lighter penalties, while infractions and violations typically result in only minor fines or warnings. This distinction in severity directly influences the length and type of sentences prescribed by the judicial system.